Nurses’ behavioral intention in using virtual clinical simulation training: By structural equation modeling

Abstract

AimTo examine the relationship between the nurses’ behavioral intention to use virtual clinical simulation training and study variables, including perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, self-efficacy, technology anxiety, perceived enjoyment and personal innovativeness. BackgroundLittle is known about the nurses’ behavioral intentions behind using virtual clinical simulation training. DesignA cross-sectional study. MethodsA total of 206 registered nurses participated in this survey. Data were collected through online survey from March 20, 2021, to April 2, 2021, since entry into the hospital was strictly controlled due to the COVID-19 outbreak. ResultsStructural equation modeling identified that both perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use were the predictors which influenced behavioral intention. Additionally, perceived enjoyment indirectly affected behavioral intention by influencing both perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. ConclusionThe successful introduction of virtual clinical simulation training depends on nurses’ willingness and acceptance of its use. The findings of this study show that virtual clinical simulation training should be perceived as useful, easy to use and enjoyable to be accepted by nurses. Virtual clinical simulation programs may have the potential to help improve nurses’ clinical skills and competencies in patient care. Tweetable abstractThis study revealed that the usefulness of its contents, ease of use and enjoyment are important to increase nurses' behavioral intention to use virtual clinical simulation training.